About River Retreat

Welcome to River Retreat Ruakōkopatuna, a beautiful lifestyle farm nestled beside the Ruakōkopatana River.  At River Retreat we have Lily’s Cottage available for a single or a couple (not suitable for children or pets).  Originally an old school house, Lily’s Cottage provides luxury accommodation with a Queen bed, antique furnishings, heat pump, leather lounge suite, bathroom, and kitchen facilities.  Wifi is also included.

There is a sunroom for you to soak in the rays at Lily’s Cottage, or you can explore the extensive grounds for other resting spots.  Sit in the pagoda overlooking the fish ponds and the aviary, or you can simply enjoy the cottage-deck overlooking the vineyard and river.  Alternatively take a stroll down the tree-lined pathways toward the river and its swimming holes. 

Ruakōkopatuna River has carved its path over a millennia through soluble limestone rock, exposing ancient marine fossils.  Enjoy the sound of the river and abundant bird life.  Relax in the many private spots beside the river, or cool off in the swimming holes.  You may see trout in the river and occasionally wild deer that wander on to the farm.

Being in the heart of a Dark Sky Reserve the star-views are dazzling.

Below is a map that shows you where we are.  Just click on ‘Directions’ in the map to help navigate your way here.

What's around about River Retreat

River Retreat is only 15 minutes drive away from Martinborough’s cafes and restaurants.  You can also enjoy the local wine at Martinborough’s many vineyards (or take a tour), stock up at one of the supermarkets, enjoy a day of shopping or a movie at the boutique movie theatre.  

Some other attractions around the area to explore include:

  • The stunning Patuna Chasm (located at Patuna Farm just a minute’s drive up the road), created by tectonic uplift from from plate collisions in the Wairarapa Region over a million years ago.  Bookings via Patuna Farm are essential. 
  • The Department of Conservation’s Aorangi Forest Park is 9 kms by motor vehicle from the River Retreat via Haurangi Road.
  • Cape Palliser, the most southern point of the North Island, is home to New Zealand’s largest fur seal colony and the Cape Palliser Light house built in 1897. Cape Palliser is the base for the crayfishing boats in the Ngawi Village.  You’ll see a colourful fleet of bulldozers to haul the fishing boats in and out of the sea.
  • Other highlights include Putangirua Pinnacles, Lake Ferry, White Rock, or Tora, as well as many other stunning places around the Wairarapa.
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